Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti: Best Travel Guide For Rahu Ketu Pooja

Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti is one of the most spiritually significant pilgrim destinations in Andhra Pradesh, India, especially for those seeking relief from Rahu-Ketu Dosha and Sarpa Dosha through the Rahu Ketu Pooja. The ancient shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva (as Sri Kalahasteeswara) and Goddess Gnana Prasunambika Devi, is also known as a sacred Vayu Lingam site and one of the Panchabhoota (Air) temples. Thousands of devotees travel here every year for darshan and to perform the powerful Rahu Ketu Pooja between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily. For official information, visit Incredible India.

Quick Facts Table

Attribute	Details
Temple Name	Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, Srikalahasti
Focus Ritual	Rahu Ketu Pooja / Dosha Nivarana Pooja
Location	Srikalahasti, Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh, India
General Temple Timings	5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Rahu Ketu Pooja Timings	6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee	Free Darshan; Pooja Tickets ₹500–₹5000
Online Booking	Available via official portal
Contact	Sri Kalahasti Temple Official

How To Reach

By Air

The nearest major airport to Srikalahasti town is Tirupati Airport (TIR). Regular flights operate from major Indian cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi. From the airport, the temple town is about 40–45 km away. Taxi or prepaid cabs are available to reach the temple directly.

By Train

Srikalahasti has its own railway station (code KHT), well connected to Tirupati and other cities in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Trains from Chennai, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad stop here. From the Srikalahasti railway station, it’s a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride (around 3 km) to the temple precincts. Understanding Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti is essential.

By Road

The temple is well connected by road. State buses and private coaches regularly run from major hubs like Tirupati, Chennai, and Bengaluru. If you’re coming by self-drive car, the drive from Tirupati to Srikalahasti takes approximately 1–1.5 hours via NH716 and SH38.

Booking/Ticket Information With Exact Steps

When I visited Sri Kalahasti Temple, one of the main questions was how to book the Rahu Ketu Pooja. As of 2026, temple authorities provide an online booking option that is simple and traveler-friendly.

Online Booking Steps

1. Visit the official temple portal: Sri Kalahasti Temple Booking.
2. Register or login using your email or mobile number.
3. Select “Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple” from the temple list.
4. Choose the “Rahu Ketu Pooja” seva.
5. Select your preferred date and time slot (e.g., 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM etc.).
6. Choose your ticket category (₹500, ₹750, ₹1500, ₹2500, ₹5000).
7. Pay securely via debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.
8. Receive a confirmation email/SMS and QR code.
9. Show your QR code at the temple counter to collect your pooja pass and materials.

I personally recommend booking at least a week in advance for peak days like Sundays or Amavasya, as slots fill up quickly. This relates to Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti.

Ticket Categories & Costs

Sri Kalahasti Temple offers several ticket types that define seating location and pooja experience. Prices range typically from ₹500 to ₹5000 depending on seating and inclusions. All rates include basic pooja materials and priest services.

Ticket Type	Price (INR)	Includes
General Ticket	₹500	Basic pooja materials & open seating
Special Ticket	₹750	Seating closer to pooja hall
VIP Ticket	₹1500	Seating near main shrine
Premium Ticket	₹2500	Family seating + special hall
Ek Varam Pooja	₹5000	Extended ritual & premium slot

Insider Tips From Personal Visit Experience

When I visited Sri Kalahasti Temple early one morning before sunrise, what surprised me was the serene calm around the temple complex even though hundreds of devotees were there for the Rahu Ketu Pooja. Here are some tips based on that visit:

• Arrive at least 60 minutes before your booked slot to avoid last-minute rush.
• Wear traditional attire (dhoti for men and saree/salwar for women) to respect temple customs.
• Carry a bottle of water and light snacks; the area around the temple has limited eateries early in the morning.
• If you are performing pooja during Rahu Kalam, plan your arrival well in advance since this period is considered highly auspicious.
• Keep multiple identity proofs handy, especially if booking was done online.

Nearby Attractions With Distances

• Tirupati Balaji Temple – ~36 km; famous Vaishnavite shrine (a must-visit).
• Kapila Theertham – ~37 km; waterfall and Shiva cave temple amidst forest.
• Tirumala Hills – ~40 km; scenic hill temple town perched high above.
• Chandragiri Fort – ~33 km; historic fort with ancient ruins and views.
• Yerpedu Lakes – ~30 km; peaceful nature spot ideal for picnics.

Best Time To Visit With Reasons

The best time to plan your visit to Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti is between October and March. The weather is pleasant, ideal for outdoor exploration and poojas. Cooler winter months also mean longer comfortable temple hours, and many religious festivals are celebrated during this season.

If your priority is to perform the Rahu Ketu Pooja with maximum spiritual benefit, consider scheduling your visit on Sundays or Tuesdays, as these days are astrologically associated with Rahu and Ketu energies. Rahu Kalam periods vary each day, and timing your pooja within this period is believed to improve results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is online booking mandatory for Rahu Ketu Pooja?

No. While online booking is available and convenient, devotees can also purchase tickets directly at the temple counter if slots remain. Booking online ensures your preferred slot.

How long does the Rahu Ketu Pooja take?

The pooja typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. Try to reach at least an hour before your slot to avoid delays. Learn more about Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti.

Can foreigners perform the Rahu Ketu Pooja?

Yes. The temple welcomes all devotees, and foreigners can perform the Rahu Ketu Pooja with the same process, slots, and timing rules as other devotees.

Are children allowed for the pooja?

Generally, children below 12 may not require a separate ticket, but rules can vary based on ticket type. Always confirm at the counter before booking.

Is there a dress code?

Traditional attire is recommended and often expected for pooja participation. Dhoti for men and saree or salwar for women is ideal.

Whether you’re seeking spiritual rectification, a peaceful pilgrimage, or a culturally rich travel experience, Ketu Rahu Temple Srikalahasti offers a deeply fulfilling process rooted in centuries-old traditions.